Franz Joseph Haydn (1732–1809) was an Austrian composer, widely regarded as the “Father of the Symphony” and “Father of the String Quartet.”A central figure of the Classical era, he shaped musical form and style with innovation, wit, and expressive clarity. Haydn spent much of his career as court composer for the wealthy Esterházy family, producing operas, chamber works, and orchestral masterpieces. His influence deeply inspired Mozart and Beethoven, securing his l...

Johannes Brahms (1833–1897) was a German composer and pianist of the Romantic era, known for blending classical traditions with emotional depth and complexity.A perfectionist, he destroyed many early works, striving for the highest quality. Brahms composed in nearly every genre—symphonies, concertos, chamber music, piano works, and choral compositions. His most famous pieces include Hungarian Dances, A German Requiem, and his four symphonies. A cl...

Marianna Martines (1744–1812) was one of eighteenth-century Vienna's most prominent composers. She received more acclaim than perhaps any other female composer of her time.Martines was a renowned singer as well as harpsichord player and composer. Empress Maria Theresa, the biggest musical patron in Vienna, was immensely taken with the young composer. Martines went on to perform for the Empress many times and may have even dedicated works to her. Martines was also o...

Joseph Bologne, Chevalier de Saint-Georges (1745–1799), was a French violinist, composer, conductor, and soldier.Born to a father from Guadeloupe, he rose to fame in Paris despite racial prejudice. A virtuoso musician, he composed operas and was briefly Director of the Paris Opera before being ousted due to his mixed-race heritage. Nicknamed the “Black Mozart,” his legacy rivals that of Mozart himself. This account includes vivid illustrations, photos of key sites,...

Franz Schubert (1797–1828) was an Austrian composer of the late Classical and early Romantic eras.Despite his short life of only thirty-one years, Schubert created more than six hundred works, including operas, symphonies, sacred music, and many pieces for chamber music. He helped shape classical music's structure and style. Colorful illustrations plus photographs of meaningful sites and settings connect readers to important points in Schubert's history. A timeline...

Discover the magic behind the scenes!Oscar dreams of being in the spotlight, but when the lead role in the school play goes to someone else, he finds himself in an unexpected role—stage manager. Disappointed and unsure, Oscar wonders: can you still be a star if no one sees you?With encouragement from family and friends, Oscar learns about all the amazing people who shine from behind the scenes—like vice presidents, nurses, and even drummers. As Oscar works ...

An egg-citing tale of teamwork!Oh no! Lady Cluckery has run away! The students in Dr. Preston’s class know they need to find her—before the bell rings to dismiss them for the weekend. They’ll have to split up if they want to find mama chicken and care for her eggs until they hatch. Working together, they find Lady Cluckery in the costume closet, of all places.Why kids will love Chicken PredicamentUniquely pairs an online music...

Clara Schumann (1819–1896), a German pianist and composer, was a prominent figure in the Romantic era.Renowned for her exceptional piano skills, she also composed notable works. Clara, married to composer Robert Schumann, had a successful solo career and is recognized for her significant contributions to 19th-century music. Colorful illustrations plus photographs of meaningful sites and settings connect readers to important points in Schumann's history. A timeline ...

Ludwig van Beethoven (1770–1827), a German composer and pianist, bridged the Classical and Romantic eras.Known for his emotionally charged and groundbreaking compositions, including the Ninth Symphony and "Moonlight Sonata," Beethoven overcame deafness to create some of the most influential and best-loved works in the history of Western classical music. Colorful illustrations plus photographs of meaningful sites and settings connect readers to important po...

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart (1756–1791) was an Austrian composer, prodigy, and prolific musical genius of the Classical era.Known for his timeless operas, symphonies, and chamber music, including The Magic Flute and Don Giovanni, Mozart's unparalleled talent and versatility left an enduring impact on Western classical music. Colorful illustrations plus photographs of meaningful sites and settings connect readers to important points in Mozart's history...

Everyone should feel safe dancing however they want!Nevaeh is nervous—tomorrow is the first dance-off in Ms. Tharrington’s class. It’s supposed to boost the students’ energy for the rest of the week, but a dance contest isn’t Nevaeh’s idea of a good time. And she’s not alone—Hanh is nervous, too. When the girls tell Ms. Tharrington how they feel, the teacher challenges the class to help everyone feel comfortable.Why kids will love

Frederic Chopin (1810–1849), a Polish-French composer and pianist of the Romantic era, was renowned for his emotive and expressive piano compositions, such as the "Nocturnes" and the "Revolutionary Étude."Chopin's innovative approach to melody and musical form left an indelible mark, making him an influential figure in 19th-century classical music. Colorful illustrations plus photographs of meaningful sites and settings connect readers to important points in Chopin...